Happy Friday! Your Weekend Soccer Primer
As the men’s international break wraps up, soccer fans are gearing up for an exhilarating weekend filled with high-stakes matches across the globe. From the Premier League to Serie A, the action promises to be intense and thrilling. I’m Pardeep Cattry, here to guide you through the weekend’s fixtures and what to watch for.
📺 Footy Fix
All times U.S./Eastern
Friday, Oct. 18
🏴 Championship: Leeds vs. Sheffield United, 3 p.m. ➡️ CBS Sports Network, Paramount+
Saturday, Oct. 19
🏴 PL: Manchester United vs. Brentford, 10 a.m. ➡️ Peacock
🇮🇹 Serie A: Milan vs. Udinese, 12 p.m. ➡️ Paramount+
🇺🇸 NWSL: Kansas City Current vs. San Diego Wave, 1 p.m. ➡️ CBS, Paramount+
🇪🇸 La Liga: Celta de Vigo vs. Real Madrid, 3 p.m. ➡️ ESPN+
🇺🇸 MLS: New York Red Bulls vs. Columbus Crew, 6 p.m. ➡️ Apple TV+
Sunday, Oct. 20
🏴 PL: Liverpool vs. Chelsea, 11:30 a.m. ➡️ USA Network
🏴 WSL: Chelsea vs. Tottenham, 1:45 p.m. ➡️ ESPN+
🇮🇹 Serie A: Roma vs. Inter, 2:45 p.m. ➡️ Paramount+
🇪🇸 La Liga: Barcelona vs. Sevilla, 3 p.m. ➡️ ESPN2
🇺🇸 NWSL: NJ/NY Gotham FC vs. Orlando Pride, 5 p.m. ➡️ ESPN
⚽ The Forward Line
🏴 Liverpool vs. Chelsea: A Top Four Clash
This Sunday, all eyes will be on Anfield as Liverpool hosts Chelsea in a match that could have significant implications for the Premier League title race. Liverpool, under the guidance of new manager Arne Slot, has made a remarkable start to the season, sitting atop the league table with a solid defensive record. They’ve only conceded two goals in seven matches, showcasing a blend of attacking flair and defensive resilience.
On the other hand, Chelsea, managed by Enzo Maresca, is also enjoying a strong start, currently in fourth place. Their offensive strategy has paid off, with standout performances from young talents Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson. This match will serve as a litmus test for both managers, as they look to solidify their teams’ standings in the early weeks of the season.
The contrasting styles of the two teams will be fascinating to watch. Liverpool’s experienced squad faces off against Chelsea’s youthful exuberance, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter.
🔗 Midfield Link Play
🇺🇸 NWSL Playoff Race Heats Up
As the NWSL regular season approaches its climax, the race for the playoffs is intensifying. With only two spots remaining, six teams are vying for a chance to compete in the postseason. The Portland Thorns and Bay FC have the clearest paths to securing their berths this weekend. A win for either team could see them clinch a playoff spot with one game to spare.
However, both teams have faced challenges this season. Bay FC, as an expansion side, has struggled defensively, conceding 39 goals. Meanwhile, the Thorns, despite being one of the league’s most successful teams, have also battled defensive issues. They rank fourth in expected goals but have a goal difference of zero, highlighting their inconsistency.
The final weeks of the regular season promise to be thrilling, with the top four teams—Orlando Pride, Washington Spirit, NJ/NY Gotham FC, and Kansas City Current—looking to maintain their dominance while lower-ranked teams aim to upset the status quo.
🔗 Top Stories
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USMNT Review: Mauricio Pochettino’s early tenure as the USMNT head coach has yielded mixed results, with room for improvement as the team gears up for upcoming fixtures against Jamaica in the Concacaf Nations League.
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USWNT Roster Update: Emma Hayes has introduced fresh faces into the USWNT squad ahead of friendlies against Argentina and Iceland, blending experience with youth.
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Fixture Congestion Concerns: Aitana Bonmati’s decision to skip Spain’s friendlies underscores the growing concerns over fixture congestion affecting players in both men’s and women’s soccer.
- MLS Decision Day: As the final round of MLS regular season games approaches, several playoff berths remain up for grabs, adding to the excitement of the weekend.
💰 The Back Line
💵 Best Bets
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Serie A: AC Milan vs. Udinese, Saturday, 12 p.m.
💰 THE PICK: Christian Pulisic to score (+130) – Pulisic has emerged as a key player for both club and country, and with his recent form, he is poised to find the back of the net again. - La Liga: Barcelona vs. Sevilla, Sunday, 3 p.m.
💰 THE PICK: Barcelona to win 2-0 (+650) – Despite recent injury concerns, Barcelona has shown resilience under manager Hansi Flick and is expected to maintain their lead in La Liga.
For more betting insights, predictions, and expert tips, check out CBSSports.com’s betting home page.
📺 What’s on CBS Sports Golazo Network
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Morning Footy (Weekdays 8-10 a.m.): Start your day with highlights, interviews, and the biggest soccer storylines. Catch it live or listen to the podcast version.
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Attacking Third (Monday, Thursday): The leading women’s soccer podcast covers the NWSL and USWNT, with live studio shows and YouTube streams.
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Call it What You Want (Monday night): A podcast focused on the USMNT and the state of soccer in the U.S., available for live streaming.
- Scoreline: A daily show providing highlights and news from global football, airing seven days a week.
For comprehensive soccer coverage, tune into the CBS Sports Golazo Network, available for free on various platforms.
With an action-packed weekend ahead, soccer fans have plenty to look forward to. Whether you’re following the Premier League, NWSL, or Serie A, the excitement of the beautiful game is sure to deliver unforgettable moments.